Malevaje by Enrique Santos Discépolo

Malevaje is a Tango written by Enrique Santos Discépolo and composed by Juan De Dios Filiberto.

Story behind the Tango Malevaje

“Malevaje” explores a profound transformation experienced by an individual who once reveled in his tough and fearsome persona but now finds himself disoriented and altered by the power of love. The protagonist addresses an unspecified person, possibly his beloved, questioning the influence they’ve exerted over him. This dramatic shift has left him feeling unrecognizable to himself and out of sync with his past identity which was admired or possibly feared in the underworld (referred to as “malevaje”).

Symbolism of Malevaje

The term “malevaje” symbolizes the shady or delinquent crowd that the narrator once associated with, reflecting his rough, previous lifestyle. This crowd now views him with confusion as he abandons his old “guapo” (brave/too) persona. The sky-high change is described vividly through tango, the dance itself evoking deep emotions and a transformative rhythm that once sparked the narrator’s altering journey. The symbols of masculinity and strength such as not even having “el pucho en la oreja” (a cigarette tucked in the ear), suggest a complete departure from his former self.

Malevaje in historic Context

Created in 1974, “Malevaje” reflects a period in Argentine history that was tumultuous, being just prior to the country’s last military dictatorship. The lyrics possibly mirror the social changes and personal reflections that individuals experienced during this era. In a broader sense, the tango could be seen as a reflection on personal reform or revolution, mirroring the greater societal shifts happening in Argentina at the time.

Enrique Santos Discépolo

Enrique Santos Discépolo was an Argentine tango and milonga musician and composer, also renowned for his poignant and socially reflective lyrics.